WORLD ELECTRIC GUIDE

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ELECTRIC POWER AROUND THE WORLD

The table below summarizes information on the electrical systems in use in most countries of the world.

The voltages listed here are the nominal figures reported to be in use at most residential or commercial sites in the country or area named. Most electrical power systems are prone to slight variations in voltage due to demand or other factors. Many former 220V countries have converted or are in the process of converting to the EU standard of 230V. Generally, this difference is inconsequential, as most appliances are built to tolerate current a certain percentage above or below the rated voltage. However, severe variations in current can damage electrical equipment.

The electric power frequency is shown in the number of hertz (cycles per second). Even if voltages are similar, a 60-hertz clock or tape recorder may not function properly on 50 hertz current. All systems described here use alternating current (AC). The plug types listed indicate all types known to be in use in that country. Not all areas of a country may use all types of plugs listed for that country, since there may be regional differences based on the power system in a certain area.

Finally, I've only included information that is likely to be relevant for travelers. Just about everywhere listed here has higher voltage lines available for heavy duty appliances (not to mention commercial or industrial applications). While this would be relevant for those moving to another country, I'm assuming most travelers will leave their clothes dryers, air conditioners and arc welders at home!

* A UN
correspondent reports C and F common in Kabul, but its likely a variety of
plugs may be used around the country. Some sources report Type D
also in use. Other reports indicate voltage variances from 160V to
280V.

Notes from
correspondents: a 'C' style plug can be used with 'E' and 'F' receptacles.
All double-insulated appliances are indeed fitted with a 'C' plug, and can
be used in any compatible receptacle (C E F and narrow L). Type C
receptacles are prohibited in Belgium.

*127V found in states of
Bahia, Paraná (including Curitiba), Rio de Janeiro,
São Paulo and Minas Gerais (though 220V may be found in some hotels). Other areas
are 220V only, with the exception of Fortaleza (240V). Outlets
(click for more) are often a combination of type A and C and can accept either type plug.

Denmark's
connectors have slight differences from those used elsewhere. While
pin diameter and spacing is standard, outlets may have different housing
depths which could interfere with standard adaptors -- one report says
this is due to "childproofing." Also, Plug C fits into K-type
outlets (but not vice versa).

A UN
correspondent reports "power is poor in the country with frequent brownouts and blackouts. I suspect that surges are frequent as we
go through a lot of surge-protecting power bars." Further he
reports than Type Iis common as
much construction is done by Australians; type C is
common in building built during Indonesian occupation; type E
is less common; type F is common in offices but not
hotels.

*Many
(but not all) modern electric outlets in Israel have larger holes that
accept both Type H and C plugs. Some extension cords and older
outlets accept only the Type H plug. One correspondent estimates a
50-70% chance that a randomly selected outlet will accept Type C.

Type L
plugs/outlets may have different pin spacing. The smaller and closer
pins are for a rated current of 10 A, the bigger and wider pins are for a
rated current of 16 A. Both kinds are currently used and comply to
the relevant Italian (CEI) regulations. Some
outlets have overlapping holes to accept either older or newer types.

*Type F likely
to be found in offices and hotels. 110V power with plugs A
& B was previously used but is being phased out. Older
buildings may still have this, and some hotels offer both 110V and 220V
service.

A correspondent
notes: "Plug type E can also be used (because the mains outlets do
not have the protruding pin). Plug type F can sometimes be used but with
reservation because in many places the mains outlet will not allow to
connect such plug as the outlets have smaller hole diameters than F-plug
pins.

Primary sources:Electric Current Abroad (1998 edition), U.S. Department of
Commerce, National Technical Information Service; World Electricity Supplies and Electrical
Plugs; an International Survey, (both 1993), British Standards Institute.
Additionally, since this table was first posted in late 1995, numerous revisions have (and
continue to be) made as a result of personal observations or reports from other travelers.